Category: Travel

With fashion week season kicking off in New York this week, I thought it was about time that I published a post about my fabulous trip to the Big Apple at the end of last month. Luckily enough there was no fog or mist this time round, there was nothing but the glorious summer sun and the whole city was shining like the top of the Chrysler building. I revisited some of my favourite spots from my last trip in January, including the Empire State Building and Grand Central Station, however I made a conscious effort to explore some of the other wonders that the city has to offer. I even ventured over to Brooklyn to admire the cities skyline from across the Hudson. I loved exploring the West Village this time round, which has now become one of my favourite areas in the city. Visiting Carrie Bradshaw’s apartment and Magnolia Bakery was a joy for such a huge Sex and the City fan as me.

This trip brought with it so many more wonderful memories that I will cherish. A personal favourite of mine was exploring the High Line. To walk the High Line, which is a 1.45 mile long walkway with gardens built on top of an old rail line, was a magical experience that I would recommend to anyone visiting the city. The juxtaposition of the calming gardens with the urban city skyline was wonderful to witness. With it being summer, I was also able to spend a lot more time exploring Central Park, visiting Strawberry fields and revisiting the Boat House for brunch. Despite the rats and the city skyline it would be easy to forget you are in one of the world’s most densely populated cities when taking a stroll around Central Park. Another one of my highlights from the trip was the sunset cruise on the Hudson river. It was truly magical to witness the sun set over Lady Liberty whilst the city lights began to twinkle in the background. It is something that I will never forget.

Whilst my feet have never ached so much after a holiday before, it is safe to say that this was one of the best trips of my life, I love this city with all my heart and I am still suffering from a severe case of post-New York blues. I hope to return to this city again soon so that the New York shaped void in my life is filled.

Some of my favourite pictures from the trip can be found below, with pictures from Rei Kawakubo/Comme des Garcons: Art of the In-Between exhibition at The Met.

My prayers and thoughts go out to all those affected by the tragic attack on this city and on liberty 16 years ago today.

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What was meant to be only a short hiatus from blogging during exam period unfortunately turned into a four month break from writing! This was unintentional, after getting out of the swing of things and after an extremely draining and stressful exam period I found it incredibly hard to bring myself to blog again. After hours and hours of revising I just couldn’t bring myself to sit down in front of my laptop and start writing pieces again. However, I’ve fully recovered now from that exhausting period and I am now a Law Graduate from the University of Durham with an Upper Second Class (2:1) Degree (eek! I can now put those letters at the end of my name).

So, a lot has happened since I last posted in my own world, within the fashion world and the world as a whole during my break from blogging. I have now officially moved back to the North West of England after leaving Durham for the foreseeable future and I am currently in the process of figuring out what I want to do with the rest of my life – other than watching Love Island that is. Since being home I have volunteered at Flare International Festival of New Theatre in Manchester, which was exciting. I have also carried out a weeks work experience at an amazing marketing firm in Liverpool, Agent Marketing, which was an invaluable experience as I discovered that I would now like to pursue a career in that field. As I yearn for the city-life and after experiencing what it is like to work in the two great cities of the North West, I no longer necessarily wish to pursue a career in London as I feel Manchester and Liverpool can offer me everything that London can but on a much smaller and much more intimate scale, which is what I like – I mean I did go to uni in Durham, which is surely the smallest city in England!

A great deal has also happened in the fashion world since I’ve been MIA. British Vogue has got a new Editor-in-Chief, Edward Enninful. I can’t wait to see what he brings to the publication, and I am eagerly awaiting his first issue – the September issue, nonetheless! We were given a taste of the coming trends at the Paris Haute Couture Fashion Week autumn/winter 2017. I must admit I am a bit behind when it comes to the fashion world at the minute, but I plan to catch up and to keep up with it now that I’m getting back into the swing of things.

I am sure to post on my trip to New York next month so look out for that, and I will definitely post on any other jaunts I go on and any news/events that catch my eye!

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The city so good that they named it twice…

Well, it’s been named three times actually (Manhattan, New Amsterdam, New York) but let’s not get into technicalities. Never have I laughed so hard and smiled so much than during the four nights and five days I spent in New York city. The fog and mist may have dampened the air but it could not dampen our spirits. It was a trip of a lifetime and one I will never forget. I was in awe of the beauty of the city and its people, which felt so familiar from movies and television despite this being my first time in the Big Apple. My hotel, The Roosevelt, was situated in the heart of Midtown, just off Madison Ave, and was a hop-skip-and-a-jump away from the magnificent Grand Central Station, 5th Ave (every shopaholics dream), the Empire State Building and Times Square. I was able to explore and soak in all the city had to offer on The Big Bus tours and witness some of the cities most iconic pieces of architecture (my personal favourite being the art-deco Chrysler building) and well-known hotspots. I would also highly recommend the Radio City Music Hall tour to anyone heading to Manhattan, as it offer a true back-stage insight into one the world’s most iconic venues and gives you a chance to explore the beautiful interior and décor dating back to the 1930s. However, it was the opportunity to see history in the making which made the trip extra special. As if arriving on inauguration day wasn’t enough, to be in the city for the Women’s March was an inspiring and moving experience. It was humbling to be a part of the 300,000-people walking in New York that day and the 2.9 million people walking across America in the country’s biggest march in its history. The march and its message is definitively close to my heart as a young woman in the 21st century and as an advocate for peace and equality for all. It was incredible to see so many standing up for what is right and it is an experience that will remain with me for the rest of my life. This trip certainly gave me a taste for all Manhattan had to offer and left me hungry for more. I am beyond excited to return to this magical city in 7 months’ time to explore the city further and create more memories that will last a lifetime.

Empire State Building

The Rockefeller Centre and Top of the Rock

Radio City Music Hall

Times Square

The Chrysler Building

Grand Central Station

Trump Tower and the Women’s March

The Flat Iron Building

St Patrick’s Cathedral

Central Park

New York Public Library

Shopping

Victoria’s Secret

Tiffany’s

Places to Eat

Carmine’s – Italian

Carmine’s has an incredible, buzzing atmosphere and is exactly the type of restaurant you expect to find in the Big Apple; serving hearty Italian cuisine in gigantic sharing platters.

Junior’s

Junior’s is known in the local area for its famous mouth-watering New York cheesecake, which apparently is a favourite of Oprah Winfrey!

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The beauty of Chatsworth House has caught the eye of visionary Alessandro Michele, for the latest Gucci Garden campaign and Joe Wright, Director of the 2005 movie-adaptation of Pride and Prejudice. Now Chatsworth has caught the eye of American Vogue’s Europeaneditor-at-large and master of style, Hamish Bowles, who is to curate the fashion galore that is House Style: Five Centuries of Fashion At Chatsworth. But whilst we may have to wait until March 2017 for this fashion extravaganza, that will be full of 500 years’ worth of fashion from notable names, do not feel the need to wait until then to visit the extravagant house and its glorious grounds. For Chatsworth is full of delights all year round. Whilst the Christmas Markets may be coming to an abrupt end (30th of November), the Christmas at Chatsworth exhibition will remain until January 3rd 2017. This winter wonderland is not to be missed, with 2016’s display paying homage to the timeless Christmas classic, The Nutcracker. Chatsworth House is a sight to behold at any time of the year, but a trip leading up to Christmas is bound to be especially magical.

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I think it’s safe to say that we are all in need of a sweet escape after all that 2016 has thrown at us. You will be sure to find me running around the house when the clock strikes midnight this New Year’s Eve carrying a piece of coal, some bread, money and greenery because after this roller-coaster of a year I think we need all the luck we can get. But in the meantime, the best way to prepare for the new year is by planning its jaunts. I don’t know about you but holiday plans are just about the only thing that gets me through mundane day-to-day life. So it’s time to get planning your perfect summer escape! There’s no need to leave the British Isles when you can find seas just as crystal clear as a Mediterranean island at the stunning Cornwall coast. I’ll admit they may not share the same climate but with breath taking beaches, mouth-watering fresh seafood cuisine and cider that even the Royals have a taste for; I can assure you after spending some time there this summer a trip to Cornwall will not disappoint. From Polruan to Padstow, or as some refer to it – Padstein, there’s plenty for you to explore across this vast diverse coast-line. Cornwall is the perfect summer getaway for those looking for a bit of relaxation and exploration.

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And so it begins…. this week saw the start of my third and FINAL year at the University of Durham and after a fun-filled Freshers week the work has already started to pile up, I already feel miles behind and the weather has taken a turn for the worst, with icy winds and torrential monsoon rain making an appearance – pathetic fallacy perhaps marking the end of all the fun and frivolities with the return of the doom and gloom that comes with attaining a degree. However, I couldn’t help but be reminded of my hometown and its surrounding area by all this rancid rain, evoking a feeling of homesickness. These rainy days remind me of all the joys the North-West has to offer. Being located slap bang in-between two of the greatest cities the North has to offer I am only a short train journey away from a host of weird and wonderful things. And all this rain has got me thinking about the rainiest city of them all, Manchester. So, I’m going to share with you a few of my favourite places in this vibrant and diverse city including shopping hotspots, eateries and more.

Shopping

Manchester is a heavan for any shopaholic! The Arndale Centre is full of high street favourites (e.g. Topshop, UO) and little treasure troves full of vintage delights are dotted about Manchester’s edgy Northern Quarter. I prefer hunting out unique pieces not likely to be found elsewhere and so I am going to share a few of the places where such items are likely to be found.

Afflecks Palace

In the heart of Manchester’s Northern Quarter, Afflecks Palace is bound to satisfy you if you are in need of the weird and wonderful, full of retro treasures not likely to be found anywhere else. This indoor market is full to the brim of stalls and wonders! It has been known to offer a strange yet satisfying shopping trip since its humble beginnings in 1981. Shoppers who have worked up an appetite can rest and refuel at the retro café situated on the top floor of the palace or they can indulge their inner child in the clever and creative cereal café. If boredom strikes (which is highly unlikely) then why not spend your time playing nostalgic arcade games, such as pac man, situated in numerous stairwells throughout the store. A trip to Affleck’s is bound to be interesting and intriguing and I can assure you it will not disappoint.

Pop Boutique

Pop Boutique, also situated in Manchester’s Northern Quarter, is the perfect place for any vintage king or queen. Bursting with vintage delights with a focus on the groovy 70’s, you’re bound to come strutting out draped in bright floral attire. Don’t get me wrong Pop Boutique also offers various items from across the decades, paying tribute to the best fashion trends modern history has to offer, including 60s Harrington jackets and 80s oversized knitwear. Make sure you have plenty to spend when you take a trip to the boutique as you’re bound to come out with bags full of retro goodies.

Cow Vintage

Cow’s colourfully painted window display lit up by twinkling vintage glass bottle lights is bound to draw you in and once in you will be welcomed by a wide array of vintage delights! With two floors of unique vintage goods, you are bound to find at least one item that will tickle your fancy. There is plenty to choose from and any trip to Cow wouldn’t be complete without an hour’s session in the changing room trying to find the best of this stores fine vintage collection. This vintage delight is another of the Northern Quarters finest and is by far one of the best in the market.

Eateries and Bars

If you’re in need of some R&R after a hefty shopping spree or you’re in need of a place to shelter after being caught in one of Manchester’s sporadic showers, do not fret because I’m going to be sharing with you some of my favourite places to dine and relax in this rainy city.

Almost Famous

If you’re in need of a succulent meat feast then head down to one of the city’s finest burger joints situated in Manchester’s Northern Quarter (and Deansgate). This mysterious burger haven may be hard to find at first but you will not forget its whereabouts once you’ve tasted one of its heavenly burgers, which always leave you hungry for more! Once you’ve located the unmarked building which hosts these dreamy delights, you are welcomed by a hefty flight of stairs, which I like to call the stairway to heaven. Do not let them put you off as once you’ve indulged in all Almost Famous has to offer you will realise that your mini-workout of the day was all worth it! Don’t forget to order some salt soaked fries to accompany your dreamy burger as these too are a treat not to be missed. A trip to Almost Famous is one which you will not forget and will leave you with your largest food baby yet hungry for more!

Turtle Bay

If you’re absolutely sick of the cold damp weather Manchester has to offer then why not head to Turtle Bay, its vibrant décor and famous jerk chicken will transport you, momentarily, to the sunny Caribbean coast making you instantly forget about the showers that wait for you outside. The Caribbean cuisine will offer you a true escape and with lightening fast service and multitudes of fiery mouth-watering goods on offer I can assure you a trip to Turtle Bay will not disappoint!

Home Sweet Home

Home Sweet Home is sure to be your home away from home, with a cosy interior and a wide ranging display of delicious goods on offer from fried chicken in a basket to burgers, an array of milkshakes and numerous giant sickly sweet cakes to choose from. All your cravings are bound to be satisfied in this cute café/restaurant.

Junkyard Golf

If you’re not looking for a sit down meal but a bit of fun, a few bevs and maybe a hotdog or two, then get down to Junkyard Golf! This isn’t your ordinary crazy golf stunt full of not so crazy windmills and the sorts. With a Rihanna room, a bear pit and all sorts of other crazy delights, Junkyard Golf makes normal crazy golf look tame. And why not indulge in a cheeky crazy cocktail littered with various of your favourite treats from your childhood, including fizzy laces, jammy dodgers, bon-bons and more. So if you’re looking for a bit of fun but you don’t want to do the same old boring thing then head to Junkyard Golf for a fun-filled night (or afternoon) that will be like no other.

Culture

If you’re in need of a culture fix, then one things for sure Manchester is not short of it! With plenty of theatres and numerous museums on offer you are bound to find something for you. Some of my favourites include the Royal Exchange where Maxine Peake likes to make a regular appearance and the Opera House and Palace Theatres where you are bound to find highly-acclaimed shows on tour– check out my previous piece on Giselle to get a taste of what the Palace has to offer. Also, just down the road in Salford Quays is the fabulous Lowry arts centre with not just two theatres but galleries, bars, restaurants and shops too! There’s also plenty of gigs on offer in this magical city, with star-studded musicians and sell out tours at the Phones 4 U arena (previously known as the MEN) to smaller more intimate gigs at the O2 Academy. If you’re wanting to broaden your knowledge then why not head to the Museum of Science and Industry, the Imperial War Museum (strictly speaking Salford Quays too) or Manchester Art Gallery – which is currently hosting the Vogue 100 exhibition – check out my previous post on this.

One things for sure Manchester is not short of things to do! You will never be bored in this magnificent city which offers a diverse array of activities and events and you a bound to build fond memories, like I have, with any trip to the city.

Well hello there! My name is Emily! When I’ve not got my nose in a hideously long textbook, I’m likely to have it in a copy of the latest Vogue, or busy getting square eyes. And when I’m not being a hermit I can be found exploring and soaking up all the culture the British Isles (and beyond) has to offer. In this blog I will be sharing my views on the latest fashion news and trends and I will be sharing my recent adventures!
Enjoy!